Affordable electric car in Australia

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD is set to introduce its first electric car priced below $40,000 in the Australian market. This is a significant development for the growing EV market in Australia. To boost sales, BYD has showcased the new Dolphin at experience centers across the country.

To get a closer look, I visited one of the experience centers in Melbourne and wanted to share my initial impressions. When I walked in, I immediately noticed a Maldive purple Dolphin on display, with its daytime-running lights on. The car appeared larger in person compared to the photos, although it is only slightly longer than the MG4 we test-drove last week.

The showcased variant was the entry-level Dynamic, priced at $38,890 before on-road costs. It is currently the most affordable new electric car in the market, so I was eager to see what it had to offer. Getting into the car was easy, and once inside, I found it to be fairly roomy with ample headspace, especially with the moonroof that is included in the Dynamic variant.

The gear shifter is now located in the center console, creating a tunnel between the driver and passenger seats, which provides additional storage space. The cupholders were easily accessible, which is a convenient feature compared to some other electric hatchbacks.

The steering wheel felt similar to the top-selling BYD Atto 3, with user-friendly controls. The screen behind it resembled the one found in the larger SUV counterpart. Considering the price point, the overall feel of the car was more premium than expected. The materials used in the seats and the inclusion of the moonroof added to the pleasant cabin experience.

In the rear, there was plenty of legroom thanks to the flat floor design, and the rear seats were comfortable as well. The boot offered ample space and had a few deeper compartments, which are useful for storage purposes. Additionally, the boot included a vehicle-to-load adapter, a home charger, and a tire repair kit, making it convenient for both home and on-the-go use.

Overall, the car felt premium and well-constructed. It reminded me of the positive impressions we had when we first reviewed the Atto 3 last year in August. With the increasing demand for EVs, it is encouraging to see compelling and affordable options like the Dolphin entering the market. Many people will find cars like the Dolphin appealing, and we are excited to test drive it in the coming months.

FutureCar Staff